Will Medicare Cover a Walker?

If you are struggling to move around in your own home, a walker might provide the assistance you need to maintain your independence. Living alone can be tricky, especially if you have mobility or balance issues. If a chronic illness has made it difficult for you to walk on your own, your physician can prescribe a walker for you and Medicare Part B health insurance you help you pay for it.

Depending on your specific needs, your doctor may order a traditional walker or rolling walker to help keep you safe in your home. Traditional walkers will have four sturdy legs that are picked up and lifted as you walk. A rollator, or rolling walker, has four wheels and a brake and is usually suggested when minimal walking support is needed.  A rollator may also be prescribed if the user does not have the arm strength for a traditional walker.

Medicare Part B

If you are eligible for Medicare, you have the option of getting Part B, also known as Medical Insurance. Medicare Part B helps cover many costs, such as preventive care, doctor visits, and durable medical equipment (DME). You pay a premium for Part B and will be responsible for a yearly deductible. If you do not enroll when you are first eligible for Medicare, you will likely pay a late enrollment penalty when you join later on. Part B’s durable medical equipment coverage will help cover the cost of a walker under certain circumstances.

A walker or rollator (rolling walker) may be covered by Medicare if your doctor deems it medically necessary and prescribes the equipment for use in your home. DME must have an expected lifetime of at least three years. You will need to get your walker or rollator from a Medicare-approved supplier who accepts assignment and are participating. If you have Original Medicare, you will likely pay 20% of the Medicare-approved amount and the Part B deductible applies. If you are enrolled in a Medicare Advantage you will have at least the same coverage as Original Medicare, but you may have additional coverage. Check with your plan to find out specific costs for a walker.